Investors poured record levels of money into mobile in the first half of 2012, pointing to the significant long-term potential they see in mobile-first ventures such as consumer applications, according to a new report from Rutberg & Co.

Pinterest is ramping up its mobile strategy with new applications for Android, iPhone and iPad devices. However, the content sharing site still has some work to do to create a truly compelling mobile experience for users.

Leading brands across several categories are pouring significant resources into mobile applications in hopes of gaining first-mover advantage as well as the awareness and loyalty that can come with being seen as an innovator.